A Dramatic Final Day
In 2016, Chapecoense faced one of the most devastating tragedies in football history when a plane crash claimed the lives of the majority of their squad. The flight, en route to Colombia for the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana final against Atlético Nacional, crashed near Medellin, with only six of the 77 passengers surviving. This catastrophic event deeply affected the football world and left an indelible mark on the Chapeco community.
The tragedy initiated a long and arduous journey for Chapecoense as they sought to rebuild both their team and their community. Despite facing numerous challenges, the club made an inspiring comeback by earning promotion back to Brazil’s top division.
Chapecoense’s Journey Post-Tragedy
Out of the four players who survived the crash, goalkeeper Nivaldo sadly passed away in the hospital shortly after, while Jakson Follmann had to retire due to his injuries. Rising from the ashes, the club rebuilt its roster through loan arrangements, free agents, and youth talent, qualifying for the 2017 Copa Libertadores. However, they struggled to make an impact in Serie A and faced relegation in 2019. Although they returned to Série A in 2021, they only managed to stay for one season before dropping back down. After four grueling years in Série B, during which they battled relegation, Chapecoense once again claimed their place in the top division with a dramatic promotion on the final day of the season.
Thiago Rabelo, a prominent Brazilian journalist and content manager at Transfermarkt, reflected on the club’s tumultuous decade since the tragedy. He noted, “The impact of the 2016 tragedy is still deeply felt at Chapecoense. The club is burdened with debts and legal issues stemming from the accident, complicating their financial situation. The challenges intensified when they were relegated in 2021, causing a significant revenue drop. For the last three years, Chapecoense faced relegation battles until the end, and this year’s promotion was unexpected as they weren’t among the teams heavily invested for ascension.”
Chapecoense’s Promotion to Série A
Many in Brazil doubted Chapecoense’s ability to contend for promotion, especially as their squad held the 11th most valuable position in Série B. Yet, against all odds, they achieved third place on a thrilling final day. As Coritiba and Athletico Paranaense secured their promotions, five teams vied for the final spot, with Chapecoense ultimately prevailing by goal difference following a nail-biting 1-0 victory. The fans flooded the pitch at Arena Condá in an emotional outpouring, and Rabelo acknowledged that their success resonated across Brazil.
He added, “This promotion marks a crucial milestone for Chapecoense, as there exists a significant financial gap between the top two tiers in Brazil. The pay difference is at least seven times greater, along with increased revenue from sponsorships, ticket sales, and player transfers. Beyond the financial aspect, returning to the pinnacle of Brazilian football symbolizes the restoration of the team’s pride, which has earned a special place in the hearts of all Brazilians since the tragic accident.”
